Psalm 68: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 68 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist calls for God to arise and scatter His enemies (vv. 1-3). He describes God’s nature as a father and defender, caring for orphans and widows (vv. 4-6). The text recalls God’s historical presence, noting His guidance through the wilderness and the tremors of the earth at Sinai (vv. 7-11). God is celebrated for His victories as kings flee and the needy are cared for (vv. 12-19). The psalmist describes processions of praise entering the sanctuary, led by singers and minstrels (vv. 20-24). There is a call for all kingdoms to join in worship, particularly from Egypt and Ethiopia (vv. 25-32). Finally, the psalm ends with a declaration of God as awesome and a source of strength for His people (vv. 33-35).

Key verse

“Sing to God! Sing praises to his name! Extol him who rides on the clouds: to Yah, his name! Rejoice before him!”
Psalms 68:4 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 68:1–3 Call to God and His People
Psalm 68:4–6 God's Nature and Care
Psalm 68:7–11 God's Historical Presence
Psalm 68:12–19 God's Victory and Deliverance
Psalm 68:20–24 Processions of Praise
Psalm 68:25–32 Universal Worship
Psalm 68:33–35 Final Praise and Acknowledgment

Discussion questions

In v5, why is God called a 'father of the fatherless'?
What does God do in v6 for the lonely?
The phrase 'plentiful rain' in v9: how does it connect to God's care for Israel?
The phrase 'you have ascended on high' in v18: what does this indicate about God's authority?
When have you felt God as a 'defender' in a challenging situation?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 68: Ephesians 4, Psalm 107, Deuteronomy 33.

Before next time: read Psalm 69.